Meta employees allege AI monitoring in 2026 layoffs; Qualtrics urges listening vs monitoring

Benjamin Granger, chief workplace psychologist at Qualtrics, warned that AI tools that read emotion and intent in workplace chat blur the line between transparent listening and covert monitoring. He defines listening as disclosed, aggregated and non‑punitive, while monitoring is often secret and can lead to negative consequences. Granger cites Qualtrics’ 2026 Employee Experience Trends Report – based on a survey of 33,831 employees in 24 countries and 30 industries during September‑October 2025 – which found organizations that increased listening frequency saw employee‑experience metrics up to four times higher, and that 72% of respondents had undergone major change in the prior year.

Granger advises HR leaders to be explicit about what data is collected, report only aggregate themes, and ensure the insights are used to improve conditions before any punitive action. He says trust erodes quickly if employees discover hidden data collection, making future engagement difficult.